Fixing the Fleet BAE System's San Diego yard is a critical player in keeping U.S. Navy ships operating

摘要

"I walk to work every day and I am inspired every time I walk around this yard," said Thomas. "1 always wanted to be in the Navy, it's all I ever wanted to do since I was a little kid. My dad was in the Navy and I couldn't wait to join, which I did the day after I turned 18." That passion for the U.S. Navy born with the man still burns today. "It's an honor for me to be able to continue to serve my country. To the sailors and the marines who will take those ships far away. It's a privilege. I love what I do." But the job of maintaining Navy ships takes more than passion, and Thomas understands the business courtesy of his Navy career. "Having been the customer, I understand the requirement for compliance with the specs, the Navy's appropriately high standards," said Thomas during our recent visit to the San Diego yard. "Our commitment to that quality and the timely delivery of those vessels is our number one priority. It's not a challenge, it's a commitment." The "Pivot West" San Diego has always been a navy town, but as the U.S. Navy works toward the stated goal of a 355-ship navy combined with its 'pivot west,' there is obvious growth in and around this major southern California city. In fact Thomas is seemingly part of the 'pivot west', as us until a year ago he held the same position at BAE Systems' Jacksonville, FL, yard before accepting the San Diego assignment. "The opportunity to continue to repair and modernize navy ships attracted me to the position in San Diego, but really it's the same customer, different coast," said Thomas. But in San Diego the size and diversity of the Navy presence is evident, as there is everything from aircraft carriers, to the large deck amphib class ships, the LPD17s, the cruisers, destroyers and minesweepers, as well as the addition of the new DDG1000, and LCS populations.